If you’ve ever wondered what you’re actually paying for with property management, you’re not alone.
Most landlords don’t mind paying a fair fee. What they mind is paying a lot and still doing the chasing, the checking, and the “just following up again” routine.
Here are five things a property manager should be doing as standard. Not as a special favour. Not only when you get cranky. Just… doing.
1. Communicating like a normal, functioning business
You shouldn’t have to send three emails to get one answer.
A good property manager:
Replies within a clear timeframe (and sticks to it)
Gives you straight answers, not vague “we’ll look into it” loops
Proactively tells you what’s happening before you have to ask
At Housit we back this with a 24 hour response guarantee. If you message us, you’ll hear back. What a concept.
2. Screening tenants properly (not just filling the vacancy)
Tenant selection is where most long term outcomes are decided.
A proper screening process includes:
Verifying income and employment (not just accepting a screenshot)
Calling references and checking rental history
Looking for patterns: late payments, frequent moves, inconsistent info
Matching the tenant to the property (not just “approved because they applied first”)
The goal isn’t to approve the most applications. It’s to approve the right tenant.
3. Staying on top of compliance in Queensland (so you don’t get burned)
Queensland tenancy rules aren’t optional. And “my property manager didn’t tell me” won’t help if something goes sideways.
A competent manager should:
Use the right notices and timeframes
Keep accurate records of entry notices, communications, and approvals
Handle rent increases and lease renewals correctly
Understand what can and can’t be required of tenants
If your manager can’t explain the basics in plain English, that’s not expertise. That’s vibes.
4. Managing maintenance without turning it into a drama series
Maintenance is normal. Delays and confusion are not.
A good manager:
Triages issues quickly (urgent vs non urgent)
Gets clear quotes and explains options
Keeps the tenant informed so they don’t escalate out of frustration
Keeps you informed so you’re not surprised later
You don’t need a manager who “forwards you the tenant’s email” and calls it a day. You need someone who actually manages.
5. Protecting your income (and your time)
Rent collection isn’t just sending reminders. It’s a system.
A strong property manager should:
Follow up arrears early and consistently
Apply the right process when rent falls behind
Keep you updated with what’s happening and what the next step is
Reduce vacancy time with realistic pricing and fast leasing execution
If you’re paying management fees and still doing your own admin, you’re not getting management. You’re getting a mailbox.
The awkward question: are you paying for results or just paying?
Traditional agencies often charge a percentage, then add fees on top: letting fees, lease renewals, inspections, admin charges, end of lease fees. It adds up fast.
Housit is different:
Flat $39 per week
All inclusive
No hidden fees
No lock in contracts
We keep it simple because landlords deserve simple.
Ready for property management that actually manages?
If you want a Brisbane based property manager who replies within 24 hours, keeps things compliant, and doesn’t nickel and dime you with extra fees, take a look at Housit.